Chorley FC unveil new stand as club flies high in the National League North and FA Cup

Chorley FC Manager Jamie Vermiglio, Ronnie Pilkington, Managing Director at Pilkington Oils, Matt Pilkington and Chorley FC Chairman Ken Wright cut the ribbon

Chorley FC are celebrating flying high at the top of the league with the opening of a new stand named after a long-standing town businessman.

The Ronnie Pilkington Stand, in the Ashby Street side of Victory Park and named after retired Pilkington Oils founder Ronnie Pilkington, was unveiled ahead of the club’s weekend draw against Chester FC.

Managing Director from Pilkington Oils, Matt Pilkington – Ronnie’s son – said: “[Ronnie] was a keen footballer in the 1940s and 1950s and played on Victory Park many times in the past.

“He founded our company in 1960 delivering coal to the local community, later branching out into fuels and lubricants which is still our core business to this day.

Family and friends from Pilkington Oils celebrate the grand opening

“As a business, we are delighted to be associated with Chorley FC and wish them continued success to an amazing season so far.”

The Magpies are currently flying high at the top of the National League North, with nine wins, two draws and zero losses to their name, receiving critical acclaim from pundits and reporters.

They also beat Peterborough Sports 3-0 at the weekend in the qualifying third round of the prestigious competition.

Commercial manager at Chorley FC, Josh Vosper, added: “The package and opening of the new stand has coincided with our tremendous start to the season.

A general view of the new Ronnie Pilkington Stand at Victory Park

“There’s currently such a good feeling on and off the pitch and we need to utilise that more – from growing attendances to getting new businesses to join our Magpie Family as we strive to form true friendships.”